Young people call for protecting children on social media

YOUTH PARTICIPATION - 8 January 2025

Young people call for digital literacy to address risks of social media

As social media channels dominate the digital landscape, the risks they pose to children and young people are increasingly evident.

Katariina, an 18-year-old from Finland who grew up in an SOS Children's Village, recently highlighted these concerns at the European Parliament, emphasizing the urgent need for better online safety practices and education.

"We are among the first generations to grow up with access to mobile phones and social media," Katariina explained at a session that coincided with World Children's Day. "The internet has brought many benefits, such as access to vast amounts of information and important social connections, but it has also introduced serious issues.

"One of the biggest issues is that children's personal information can fall into the wrong hands," she said

A growing concern

Without proper guidance, many young users fall victim to web harassment, privacy violations, and even identity theft. According to the EU Kids Online 2020 international report, at least 21% of children aged 12-16 in Europe lack the knowledge to change their privacy settings on social media accounts. Younger users are even more vulnerable.

The lack of digital literacy among children underscores the importance of proactive measures. "Too many children lack the required skills and knowledge to protect themselves properly on the internet," Katariina noted.

Call for action

Katariina was one of 13 children and young people who came to Brussels at the end of November to exchange with members of the European Parliament on several topics important to young people, from mental health and online safety to child participation, violence and climate change.

To keep children safe online, Katariina advocates for a multifaceted approach. She believes adults must take a more active role in supervising children's internet use and ensuring they have the necessary information to navigate digital spaces safely. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for comprehensive education on online safety.

"Every child deserves and has the right to be safe, whether in an online environment or not," she said. "To ensure equal education on this topic, the European Union should step in. Teaching online safety in schools would reach the widest audience and equip children with essential skills."

A proposed solution

Katariina suggests implementing a certification system for young social media users. Before creating an account, children would need to pass a test assessing their understanding of online safety. This measure could significantly reduce the risks associated with digital interactions.

The European Union has recognized the growing risks of digital exposure through its EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child. This strategy highlights concerns such as the over-exposure to screens and online activities, which can adversely affect children's health and mental well-being. Issues like heightened stress, attention deficits, eyesight problems, and reduced physical activity are directly linked to excessive screen time.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has underscored the importance of protecting children and young people in the digital age. She has pledged to set up a President's Youth Advisory Board with young people from all Member States to advise on issues and serve as a sounding board for the Commission.

"I believe one of our greatest challenges in this decade is protecting the mental health of our children and young people - especially online. The early and teenage years are critical for brain and personality development - and are also times of vulnerability to harms from social media and excessive screen time. We must have an open and evidence-based debate on this issue. This is why we will launch an EU-wide inquiry on the broader impacts of social media on well-being," she said.